The Smart Traveller’s Guide to Short-Term Accommodation in London: Comfort, Convenience & Perks

Aissatou Kaba
Nov 21
4 min read

“London is the most Googled city in the world.” – Google Trends, 2024

It’s no surprise. With its rich history, thriving business scene, and buzzing global atmosphere, London attracts millions of visitors each year—not just tourists, but also business travellers. Whether you're here for a conference, a client meeting, or an extended work trip, finding the right place to stay is essential. Booking a hotel for a week-long project or cramming into a budget Airbnb isn’t always ideal.

If you’re travelling to London for business, you need more than just a bed to sleep in—you’re after comfort, flexibility, and cost-efficiency. This blog explores why short-term accommodation in London is the preferred choice for business travellers and how you can find the best living solutions. From serviced apartments to flexible leases, we’ll show you how these options can make your stay more comfortable and convenient.

Why Traditional Options No Longer Work for Business Travel in London

Let’s be honest—hotels can feel stiff and impersonal. Airbnb can be hit or miss. Business travellers need more than just “somewhere to crash.” Today’s travel is all about livable spaces that combine privacy with practicality.

London attracts over 1 million international business travellers each year, with professionals routinely spending extended periods in the city. Whether it's a startup expanding into Shoreditch or a tech company setting up in King's Cross, temporary accommodation has become a crucial aspect of business travel.

Here’s what business travellers are now looking for:

Private space with room to work and unwind.
Flexible leases that align with project timelines.
Locations with easy access to business districts and transport.
Amenities like kitchens, Wi-Fi, and cleaning services.
Cost savings for longer stays.

Short-Term Rentals & Serviced Apartments: The New Standard

Forget the cookie-cutter hotel rooms. Today’s business accommodation in London looks and feels like home. Whether you’re staying in a modern serviced apartment or a stylish flat, these spaces offer the perfect balance of comfort and functionality.

These accommodations are ideal for:

Professionals working on long-term projects.
Teams attending conferences or business events.
Digital nomads who need a temporary base in London.
Freelancers and contractors who want a home-away-from-home feel.

Not only are they more affordable for longer stays, but they also offer the peace of mind that comes with fully furnished spaces and amenities designed for business travellers.

The Real Benefits for Travellers

Here’s why business travellers are opting for short-term rentals and serviced apartments in London:

Comfort Meets Functionality
These aren’t soulless hotel rooms. They’re fully furnished with kitchens, lounge areas, desks, and fast Wi-Fi—perfect for mixing work and life while you're away from home.
Cost Efficiency
Booking multiple hotel rooms for weeks adds up quickly. Long-term rentals often work out much cheaper, especially with savings on utilities and more flexible terms for extended stays.
Flexibility That Matches Real Life
Projects change. Meetings get extended. Short-term rentals and flexible leases let you stay as long as you need without the commitment of a long-term contract. You can extend your stay or move out when the project concludes.
Location-Smart
Whether you want to be in London’s financial district or a quieter area like Kensington, you’ll find options across the city—from Zone 1 to Zone 6. Find accommodation near your business meetings or stay in areas with good transport connections.

Travellers' Tips: How to Choose the Right Short-Term Accommodation in London

If you’re heading to London for business, here’s how to pick the right place:

✅ Check What's Included. Ask about:

Bills (Wi-Fi, utilities, council tax)
Cleaning services
Kitchen equipment
Workspace options

✅ Think About Transport. Is it close to the Tube or bus links? Is it easy to reach your workplace or client site?

✅ Clarify Lease Terms. Are you staying for a month or longer? Look for properties that offer flexibility, so you can extend your stay if needed.

✅ Prioritise Security & Support. For peace of mind, choose properties that provide 24/7 support. This ensures you have help for maintenance issues or late-night arrivals.

✅ Don’t Overlook Comfort. You’ll be spending weeks or even months in your accommodation, so make sure it feels like a home away from home. Look for stylish, well-maintained properties with ample space.

What This Means for Landlords & Agents

The growing demand for short-term accommodation presents an opportunity for property owners and agents. More business travellers prefer fully managed, flexible rental solutions over traditional hotels.

If you own a flat or property in London, catering to the business travel market can offer multiple benefits: